What You Need to Know
• Phoenix Mercury forward Alyssa Thomas received a one-game suspension for making contact with Caitlin Clark’s throat.
• Following the incident, Thomas reported receiving death threats and racial slurs directed at her.
• WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert condemned the hate and emphasized the league’s commitment to player safety.
Alyssa Thomas, a forward for the Phoenix Mercury, was suspended for one game after making contact with Caitlin Clark’s throat during a WNBA game against the Indiana Fever on June 28, 2026. Following the incident, Thomas stated that she has faced death threats and racial slurs, expressing her frustration with the backlash. In a press conference, she criticized WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert for not doing enough to protect players. Engelbert responded by condemning all forms of hate and reaffirming the league’s commitment to player safety. Thomas described the incident as an accident and expressed concern over the safety of players, highlighting the alarming threats they have received.
Why It Matters
This incident highlights ongoing issues of player safety and the impact of social media on athletes in the WNBA. Alyssa Thomas’s experience reflects a broader concern about the treatment of female athletes, particularly regarding racial and gender-based harassment. The WNBA has faced scrutiny over its policies and procedures for addressing player safety and community conduct, making this situation particularly significant in the context of league governance and player welfare. The league’s response to such incidents will be crucial in shaping its future reputation and the safety of its players.
Read the Full Story →
